Ex-justice of the peace in Texas gets prison for embezzling

Published 5:23 am, Tuesday, April 12, 2016

WICHITA FALLS, Texas (AP) — An ex-judge in North Texas must serve two years in federal prison for stealing more than $133,000 in payments meant to settle minor court cases.

Former Archer County Justice of the Peace Joseph Charles Boyle was sentenced Monday in Wichita Falls and must repay the money.

The 64-year-old Boyle served as an elected justice of the peace since 2003. Boyle in November pleaded guilty to theft from programs receiving federal funds. He resigned a day before his guilty plea.

Boyle was authorized to impose fines and assess fees for violations such as a minor having alcohol and traffic violations. Prosecutors say Boyle stole the funds since 2013, often requesting cash and keeping some money before turning in the rest and adjusting court records.